Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of May 28-30, 2012

Domestic Battery

May 28 at 9:21 a.m., a caller reported a male subject assaulting a female subject in the area of Madison and Colorado.  Officers arrived and spoke to both subjects.  Through investigation it was learned that the male subject is the ex-boyfriend of the female and he was forcefully pushing her to walk with him to the store.  She was resisting him, so he clamped his hand on the back of her neck and pulled her hair, trying to force her to walk with him.  The victim was not injured, but does desire prosecution.  An Emergency Protective Order was issued and served.  

Residential Burglary

May 28 at 1:20 p.m., police responded to the report of a residential burglary in the 100 block of Spanner Street.  A female Hispanic suspect, approximately 50 years old, approached the front door of the residence, which is occupied by two elderly women and one of the women's daughters.  Only one of the women was home at the time and her daughter was sleeping in her room.  The suspect spoke to the resident and told her she had purchased the property behind the victim's house and there was a tree problem that she wanted to show her.  The suspect and the victim walked to the rear of the property.  As they did so, the suspect was on the phone the entire time.  Once the suspect left, the victim went back inside her home and found it ransacked and her wallet, cash and jewelry were taken.  The victim observed a dark colored, 4-door vehicle in front of the house during this incident.  Investigation continuing.

Commercial Burglary

May 28 at 3:13 p.m., a burglary was reported at a business in the 100 block of East Lemon.  The suspect(s) forced a gate and used a pry tool to enter a side door to a conference room.  The alarm sounded and the suspect(s) forcefully tore a flat screen television from its mount and fled the scene.  Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

May 28 at 7:55 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of West Foothill.  The victim parked and locked her vehicle in front of the business where she works and left it there over the weekend, as she went out of town.  When she returned on Monday evening, the vehicle was gone.  The vehicle is a white, 2009, 4-door BMW with paper plates.  Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

May 29 at 7:59 a.m., a grand theft auto was reported in the 300 block of East Lemon.  The victim parked his ATV, a green, 2008 Honda Foreman, in the bed of his pickup truck in his driveway.  Suspect(s) removed the ATV from the bed of the truck sometime overnight.  Investigation continuing.

Daytime Residential Burglaries

Three daytime residential burglaries occurred in the morning and afternoon hours on May 29.  Two occurred in the 100 block of North Alta Vista and one in the 600 block of Terrado.  The victim of the first home on Alta Vista is in the process of moving out and had most of her belongings out of the home.  She was not able to respond, so a family member secured the house.  A list of stolen items will be provided upon her return.  Suspect(s) entered the home by prying open a bathroom window.

Suspect(s) entered the second home burglarized on North Alta Vista by removing three glass louvers from the window and then opening it.  The victim's house was very full of personal items and it was hard to determine what was taken from the property.  The victim reported cash taken.

The third home burglarized is in the 600 block of Terrado.  The victim is an elderly female.  She left the location at 7:45 a.m. and returned at approximately 1:25 p.m.  The suspect(s) went into her garage and obtained a screwdriver and ladder.  They made entry through a front window.  The house was ransacked and the loss was cash and jewelry.  It is unknown if these three burglaries are related.  The investigations are continuing.

Stranded Hiker Rescued

May 29 at 8:01 p.m., dispatch received a call from a 43-year-old female.  She said she was hiking near the Trask Boy Scout Camp when she saw a bear on the road.  She said she was hiding from the bear in some bushes.  Her cell phone signal was breaking up and dispatch lost phone contact with her.  Officers responded and began a search of the area.  The Foothill Air Support helicopter also responded to assist. 

After searching the area for approximately one hour, the woman was found 20 feet below the road at the bottom of a steep hill.  She said that when she saw the bear, she panicked, backed up and fell down the hill.  She was unable to get back to the road without assistance.  The Fire Department responded and assisted her up the hill to safety.  The woman was not injured.

Theft From a Vehicle

May 30 at 3:26 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of East Hillcrest saw a tall male suspect wearing dark clothes tampering with his unlocked car.  The resident yelled at the suspect, who walked away, eastbound on Hillcrest.  The loss was a small amount of change.

Grand Theft Auto

May 30 at 7:04 a.m., a green Honda Accord was reported stolen from the 200 block of West Pomona.  The victim had parked and locked his vehicle in front of his house in the evening.  The vehicle was taken sometime overnight.  The El Monte Police Department called later in the day and advised they had recovered the vehicle.  It had been stripped and abandoned in their city.  Investigation continuing.

Tip of the Week

"KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25" CAMPAIGN

"KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25" is a traffic safety campaign to raise awareness of the residential speed limit.  In California the speed limit in residential areas is 25 MPH, unless posted otherwise.  The goal of the "KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25" organization and the Monrovia Police Department is working together to end injuries and deaths that result from speeding vehicles in our neighborhoods.  The street in front of your home is over twice as dangerous as highways when it comes to number of deaths per miles driven (Federal Highway Administration).

The "KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25" organization, the Monrovia Police Department and the Monrovia Unified School District are working collaboratively to create safe streets through education and active community involvement. 

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of May 24-27, 2012

Burglary / Possession of Burglary Tools - Suspects Arrested

May 24 at 4:12 p.m., a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain reported three suspicious subjects, two males and a female, inside the business that have stolen merchandise from several of their store locations.  An officer responded and detained one male subject, who consented to a pat-down search.  The suspect had wire cutters and a magnetic decoder to remove security tabs on his person, along with items of store merchandise he had taken without paying.  As the female suspect exited the business, she was detained and was also found to be in possession of a magnetic decoder.  The third male suspect exited, but did not have any items on him.  The first suspect admitted he had gone into the store to steal, but claimed the other two did not know.  He and the female were arrested and taken into custody.  The other male subject was identified and released.

Gang Injunction / Warrant Arrest - Suspects Arrested

May 25 at 1:52 a.m., officers were conducting extra patrol behind a business in the 1100 block of South Magnolia when they saw an opening in the perimeter gate.  While checking the area, three subjects were found sleeping in some abandoned apartments.  One subject was arrested for the gang injunction, one subject was arrested for a warrant, and the third subject was identified and given a warning to stay out of the location.

Fight in Progress - Suspects Identified

May 25 at 6:22 p.m., a caller reported four subjects fighting in the street at Myrtle and Pomona.  As officers were responding, dispatch advised the suspect vehicle was attempting to flee, but the engine hood flew open.  This caused enough delay for officers to locate the vehicle as it drove onto the westbound 210 Freeway.  Officers conducted a traffic stop on Santa Anita, just north of the freeway, and detained three male subjects and one female.  Officers attempted to locate the victim, but he was not found.  The suspects were identified and released.

Petty Theft

May 25 at 9:34 p.m., a petty theft was reported at a park in the 300 block of South Myrtle.  Three male juveniles were approached by a 16-year-old, male subject who asked to use one of their cell phones to call his mom.  The victim handed the suspect his phone; the suspect took the phone and fled the location.  He was last seen running west on Palm towards Primrose.  He is described as a male Hispanic, 16 years old, brown hair, brown eyes, thin build, approximately 5 foot 11 inches tall.  Investigation continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered

May 26 at 12:11 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Fifth and Huntington when he saw a suspicious vehicle occupied by two male subjects abruptly pull into a business parking lot in an erratic manner.  The officer followed behind the vehicle and saw both occupants walk into a business.  A DMV computer check revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen from Baldwin Park.  The suspects ran out the backdoor of the business and onto the freeway.  CHP received several calls from drivers that the suspects were running on the freeway.  A witness saw the suspects exit the north side of the freeway.  Containment of the area was established, but the suspects were not located. 

The suspects are described as being in their 30's.  One had tattoos on the left side of his neck.  One suspect was wearing a white t-shirt, blue jean shorts and a fedora type hat.  The other was wearing a light blue hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans.  The vehicle was recovered and the investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary

May 27 at 9:10 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of West Lemon.  The victim parked and locked their Chevy Tahoe in their assigned parking space.  When they returned to the vehicle, they noticed the doors ajar and the two back leather seats were missing.  The suspect(s) most likely used a Slim Jim to gain entry into the vehicle.  Investigation continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary

May 27 at 10:03 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of South Myrtle. A gardener had his tools stolen from his truck.  The tools have his initials etched on them.  He had been working around the grounds in the area, and when he returned to his truck for additional tools, he found someone had broken into his truck.  Investigation continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle

May 28 at 12:39 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 800 block of West Olive.  The victim parked his vehicle in his carport, but did not lock the driver's door. When he returned to his car the next day in the afternoon, he found his property was missing from the vehicle.  The items taken were an Ipod, the vehicle radio, and a DVD player.

Domestic Violence / Warrant - Suspect Arrested

May 28 at 2:22 a.m., officers responded to a location in the 900 block of South Fifth regarding a disturbance.  They spoke to a female subject, who said she was involved in an altercation with the father of her children.  She sustained visible injuries, so the male suspect was arrested.  It was later discovered that he also had an outstanding warrant, which was added to his charges.

Special Enforcement Team Weekly Activity

Assault Investigation / Gang Injunction Served

On May 25, the Special Enforcement Team worked DAMAGE (Duarte and Monrovia Anti-Gang Enforcement) with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department and Parole.  The team assisted patrol with an assault investigation at Myrtle and Pomona.  DAMAGE members located the suspect vehicle on the 210 Freeway, traveling westbound, and conducted a high-risk stop on Santa Anita, north of the 210 Freeway.  They detained three known gang members.  Two were served with the gang injunction.   

Gang Injunction Served / Gang Injunction Violation / Warrant Arrest

On May 27, Special Enforcement Team officers worked a large church fiesta in the 700 block of South Shamrock for gang suppression.  The team assisted patrol with a fight in the 600 block of Royal Oaks, near the location.  Two gang members were served with the gang injunction, and another gang member was arrested for violation of the gang injunction.  A fourth gang member was also served with the gang injunction at the police department when he was arrested and taken in for an outstanding warrant.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of May 21-23, 2012

Fire Assist / Gas Leak

May 21 at 1:33 p.m., police responded to assist the Fire Department on a reported gas leak.  A contractor working at a location in the 100 block of West Colorado struck a gas line, causing a leak.  Residents near the location were evacuated for their safety.  The residents were sheltered at the Community Center and a secondary location in the 100 block of West Olive.  The Gas Company responded and fixed the problem. 

Residential Burglary

May 21 at 10:39 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 1100 block of Orange.  The burglary occurred sometime between 3 and 9 p.m.  Unknown suspect(s) entered through an unlocked rear window and jewelry was stolen.  Investigation continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered

May 22 at 3:12 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 200 block of East Chestnut located a stolen vehicle parked in the alley.  The vehicle is a 1996 Honda Accord that was stolen out of the City of Claremont.  Residents in the area stated the vehicle had been parked there for about three days, and no one had been seen around the vehicle.  The vehicle was recovered and Claremont Police Department was notified. 

Commercial Burglary

On May 23 at 4:58 a.m., dispatch received a report of an alarm activation at a business in the 100 block of West Pomona.  When officers arrived, they found the door to the business had been pried open.  Copper wire and pipes had been stolen.  Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto / Vehicle Recovered

On May 23 at 8:47 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen in the 1200 block of Alta Vista.  The Vehicle is a black 1996 Honda.  There were no known suspects or evidence at the scene. The vehicle was later recovered in Victorville by San Bernardino Sheriff's Department who also printed the car for us. Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Motorcycle

On May 23 at 7:28 a.m., a motorcycle was reported stolen in the 300 block of West Duarte Road.  The motorcycle is a black 1988 Yamaha YSR. No known suspects or evidence found.  Investigation continuing.

Commercial Burglary / Attempt Fraud

On May 23 at 4:55 p.m., an officer responded to the 600 block of Huntington Drive regarding a Commercial Burglary and Fraud occurring in three businesses.  A female had used a fraudulent credit card two times prior and was recognized by the store staff when she attempted to buy products using a fraudulent card again. When they advised her they were calling the credit card company, she fled from the store. The suspect is described as a female white or Hispanic, 5-5, 25 years old, blonde hair and appears to be pregnant.  As she fled she was joined by a Hispanic male wearing a sports type jersey. It was later determined that the male suspect had also attempted two fraudulent purchases in the 600 block of Huntington. The male suspect fled when officers arrived in the area. A search was conducted but the male and female were not found. A total of three incidents of burglary/fraud were established in which the male or the female were the suspects.   Investigation continuing.

Medical Assist

May 23 at 8:31 p.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of North Alta Vista regarding a call of a male who collapsed and was possibly having a heart attack. When the officer arrived he administered CPR for approximately 2-3 minutes before paramedics arrived.  As of this morning, the subject is recovering in the Intensive Care Unit.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle

On May 23 at 11:04 p.m., an officer was in the 300 block of West Cypress on a different call when he observed a suspicious vehicle parked at the location and ran the plate.  The vehicle was reported stolen out of Azusa.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Arrested

On May 24 at 3:24 a.m., officers responded to the 600 block of West Olive regarding subjects drinking in the park. Officers detained several subjects; one subject was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. The others were field interviewed and released.

 ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Tip of the Week

Damage to a Gas Pipeline or Meter - Safety Tips From The Gas Company

Leaking gas from any damaged pipeline or gas meter could cause a fire, explosion, property damage and serious bodily injury.

Follow these guidelines if you encounter a leaking gas pipe or meter:

            REMAIN calm.

            DON'T light a match, candle or cigarette.

DON'T turn electrical devices on or off, including light switches.

DON'T start an engine or use any device, including a telephone, which could cause a spark.

IMMEDIATELY EVACUATE the area, and from a safe location, call SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

CALL 911 promptly after evacuating the area if the damage results in a natural gas leak that may endanger life or cause bodily harm or property damage.

DO NOT attempt to control the leak or repair the damaged pipe or meter. Do not use or turn off any equipment that could cause a spark. Motorized or electrically powered equipment or vehicles may create an ignition source if a gas leak is present. Safely abandon any motorized or powered equipment or vehicles. Gas leaking from a plastic pipe can create static electricity that can ignite the gas.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of May 17-20, 2012

Burglary Residential

On May 17 at 10:24 a.m., a victim reported a residential burglary that occurred in the 1100 block of Orange.  Someone entered the residence through a window and went through the victim's jewelry, but nothing was missing.  Investigation continuing.

Vehicle Burglary

On May 17 at 11:51 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of Colorado. The victim parked and locked his vehicle on the second level of a parking structure.  When he returned, the vehicle was still locked, but his backpack containing clothing was missing from the backseat, along with a cell phone, which was in the center console.  Investigation continuing.

Conspiracy / Strong Arm Robbery - Suspect Arrested

On May 17 at 9:12 p.m., police received a call from a female subject in the 900 block of Monterey.  She reported that her 17-year-old brother returned home and was bleeding, but he couldn't remember anything.  Through investigation, police learned he had been battered by several male subjects.  Monrovia Fire Department paramedics arrived and treated the juvenile.  

After leaving the location, officers received information on the identity of one of the suspects.  They learned that one of the suspects beat up the victim because of pictures he had on his cell phone.  Officers went to the suspect's house to speak to him and subsequently arrested him.  The suspect admitted to his involvement.  He was later released to his parents.

Contributing to the Delinquency of Minors - Suspects Arrested

On May 17 at 10:08 p.m., officers responded to a park in the 400 block of North Grand regarding juveniles hanging out in the park after it was closed.  Officers arrived and located two male adults, who are known gang members, with four female juveniles.  Their vehicle was parked on the street and contained alcohol, with a number of open containers.  The female juveniles were picked up by the parents and the two adults were arrested for contributing to the delinquency of minors.  

Grand Theft Auto

On May 18 at 11:26 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1300 block of Peck Road.  The victim's son used his father's car and went to a business.  While he was there, unknown persons stole the car, a grey, 1990 Toyota Camry.  Investigation continuing.

Warrant Arrest / Domestic Violence Restraining Order - Suspect Arrested

On May 18 at 3:47 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of Cloverleaf regarding a domestic dispute.  The female resident's husband, who was recently arrested for domestic violence, was back at her house, and she believed he had turned off the power to the house.  Officers arrived and were speaking to the woman when they observed a male subject running from the location, attempting to hide in the brush on the hillside.  Officers contained the area and apprehended the suspect without incident.  

The suspect was the husband, and he had been drinking alcohol.  He had not yet been served the restraining order, and the wife did not witness him at the power box.  He was arrested for an outstanding warrant, served with the restraining order and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto

On May 20 at 4:15 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of Pearl regarding a grand theft auto in progress.  The victim woke up and remembered he had left the keys in his vehicle.  He went outside to get the keys and saw his vehicle driving away toward Norumbega.  An area search was made by officers, but the vehicle was not located.  The vehicle is a red, 1993 Chevy Suburban with black flames on both sides.  It has guitar detail on the rear window, chrome rims, and had guitar equipment inside.  Investigation continuing.

Special Enforcement Team Weekly Activity

Fraudulent Registration Tabs / Defrauding Department of Motor Vehicle - Suspect Arrested

On May 15 at 9:00 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers stopped a vehicle with fraudulent registration tabs.  The driver was arrested for making false registration tabs and defrauding the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Gang Injunction Served

On May 16, Special Enforcement Team officers conducted a pedestrian stop at Shamrock and Almond on a known gang member.  He was field interviewed and served the gang injunction.

Possession for Sales / Transportation of a Controlled Substance - Suspect  Arrested

On May 17 at 2:02 p.m., the Special Enforcement Team conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of Magnolia.  A canine officer was requested from Irwindale Police Department.  The canine had a positive alert on the right front passenger seat.  A search of the seat revealed a hidden compartment inside that contained approximately half a pound of heroin.  The driver was arrested for possession for sales and transportation of a controlled substance.

Warrant - Suspect Arrested

On May 18 at 7:40 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers arrested a known gang member for two misdemeanor warrants in the 1200 block of South Myrtle.

Stop Graffiti Bounty Program

One of the methods the Monrovia Police Department is using to combat graffiti in the community of Monrovia is the Stop Graffiti Bounty Program.  If a citizen reports an incident of graffiti in the City of Monrovia that leads to the arrest of the suspect, the citizen will receive a $100 bill.  Help keep Monrovia looking great!

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of May 14-16, 2012

Vehicle Burglary

May 14 at 10:16 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 300 block of North Alta Vista.  The victim had parked his vehicle on the street.  Suspect(s) smashed the rear windows on the vehicle and stole tools and computer parts from inside.  A witness saw an older, dark blue or green, 4-door vehicle leaving southbound from the location at the time of the burglary.  Investigation continuing.

Fire Assist

May 15 at 3:19 p.m., police responded to a fire assist call in the 1600 block of Encino.  The first officer arrived on scene and saw smoke coming from a structure.  He started evacuating the building, but did not get a response from one of the units.  The officer heard a woman screaming from the second story.  He entered the smoke filled apartment and was able to work his way upstairs and reach the adult female and four children.  He led them down the stairs and out of the building to safety.  The officer was treated for smoke inhalation, but was able to return to work.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-up

Search Warrant Service - Fraud / Receiving Stolen Property - Suspects Arrested

Monrovia detectives received a call from an out-of-state company fraud investigator who had identified a commercial account that had been compromised.  The suspect was ordering expensive merchandise on the companies account and was having the shipments delivered to an address in Monrovia.  A Search Warrant was served on the address by detectives.  The location was occupied by a male and a female adult.  The search did not uncover additional company property, but marijuana and a syringe were found in the house, along with several smoking pipes.  The female was charged with grand theft, receiving stolen property and possession of a syringe.  The male was arrested for possession of more than 28.5 grams of marijuana

2012 CLICK IT OR TICKET CAMPAIGN

The Monrovia Police Department will be participating in the 2012 National Click It or Ticket Mobilization Campaign, May 21 - June 3.  To support national efforts to make Click It or Ticket a success, the Office of Traffic Safety has asked traffic and patrol officers from every agency to join departments across California to prepare for maximum high-visibility seatbelt enforcement both day and night.  So buckle up, because seatbelts save lives.

"You can help protect your friends and family when you lead by example and remind others to buckle up.  It turns out 9 out of 10 people fasten their seatbelt when asked to do so - so speak up and buckle up, every time on every trip." - Advice from the National Highway of Traffic Safety Administration.

Click on Click It or Ticket for more information on the 2012 Click It or Ticket Campaign from the California Office of Traffic Safety.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of May 10-13, 2012

Petty Theft / Possession of Methamphetamine / Suspect Arrested

On May 10 at 3:51 p.m., an officer responded to the 1600 Block of South Mountain regarding a suspect detained for theft. The suspect had entered the store with the intent to purchase items but determined they were too expensive. The suspect had the ability to pay for the items. A search of the suspect's wallet revealed a usable amount of methamphetamine.  The suspect was arrested for petty theft and possession of methamphetamine.  

Domestic Violence - Suspect Arrested

On May 10 at 7:39 p.m., officers responded to 1800 block of Eighth Avenue, regarding a family disturbance. When officers arrived, they found the victim, the father, and two children waiting outside the residence. Through the investigation, it was determined that the wife was the primary aggressor and was arrested. An emergency protective order was requested by the father. The wife was arrested for domestic violence.

Petty Theft with Priors / Parole Hold / Suspect Arrested

On May 10 at 10:06 p.m., an officer responded to the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a suspect in custody for shoplifting. A computer check revealed the suspect had three or more prior petty theft arrests and was on parole.  The suspect was arrested for petty theft with priors and a parole hold was obtained.

Failure of Yield / Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol

On May 10 at 10:28 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle weaving. He attempted a traffic stop, but the driver failed to yield and continued on. The driver went north on Grand to Sierra Vista where he pulled over just shy of his residence. The driver was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence and failure to yield.

Grand Theft Auto

On May 11 at 8:48 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen in the 600 block of East Colorado.  The victim had parked his vehicle, a red, 2005 Honda in front of his residence.  The following morning he discovered the vehicle missing.  Investigation continuing.

Critical Missing

On May 11 at 12:30 p.m., a report was received regarding a missing juvenile who was seen on a bus in Monrovia.  Officers conducted an investigation and determined that the missing juvenile returned to her mother's home in Los Angeles.  Officers were able to confirm with Department of Children and Family Services that the juvenile was safe and in her mother's custody.

Residential Burglary

On May 11 at 2:47 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 600 block of West Walnut sometime between 7:00 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. When the victim returned they found the screen off of the front window. A lap top computer, TV and other electronics were stolen.  Investigation continuing.

Strong Arm Robbery

On May 11 at 7:59 p.m., officers responded to 600 block of West Huntington, regarding a robbery. The victim, a customer, was sitting at a table using his laptop and had his black, iphone on the table. The suspect entered the store, looked around as if he was going to buy coffee. He walked behind the victim, pushed the victim's head down onto the table with one hand while he grabbed the iphone with the other hand. The suspect then walked out and fled on foot.  The suspect is described as a male, black, early 20's, 6'3", medium build, light complexion wearing an over sized T-shirt, white pants, and had corn roll hair style. Investigation continuing.

Arson

On May 12 at 7:44 p.m., an officer responded to the 900 block of East Lemon to investigate a fire at the school.  The door of classroom 13 was on fire.  Apparently a school banner was suspended in the air, above classroom 13.  As the banner burned to the ground, it caught the classroom door on fire.  The fire was extinguished immediately and structure damage was minimal.  The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Controlled Substance

On May 13 at 12:35 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a lighting equipment violation.  A subsequent investigation revealed marijuana and several ecstasy pills inside of the locked glove box.  Both suspects were arrested.

Grand Theft Auto

On May 13 at 10:34 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen in the 400 South Magnolia. The victim parked his vehicle in front of his house.  The vehicle is a 2000, Honda, Civic.  Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

On May 13 at 4:42 p.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of Kruse regarding a stolen vehicle.  The victim parked his vehicle on the street in front of his house.  The vehicle was a 2008 black GMC truck.  The keys were not accounted for.  Investigation continuing.

Theft / Receiving Stolen Property - Suspects Arrested

On May 13 at 12:56 p.m., Arcadia Police Officers interrupted a theft in progress occurring at 3000 block of Peck Road.  Arcadia Police officers detained two suspects pending Monrovia Police Department's arrival, as the theft occurred in Monrovia's jurisdiction. An officer handled the investigation and discovered the suspects jumped over the wall at a facility and stole boat parts.  The suspect's pick up truck was also loaded with other property suspected to be stolen from other locations. Officers took custody of the suspects.  Investigation continuing.

Special Enforcement Team Weekly Activity

Parole Violation

On May 11 at 7:19 p.m., the Special Enforcement Team officers stopped a vehicle in the 2600 block of Peck Road after observing it parked by a school. The officer saw one of the occupants enter the school grounds. During the stop it was determined the subject was a sex offender and was on parole. Parole was notified and violated his parole for being on school grounds.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of May 7-9, 2012

Vehicle Burglary

May 8 at 4:20 a.m., dispatch received a 9-1-1 call from a cell phone.  When the dispatcher answered, she could hear an open line with suspicious background noises.  The noises varied from the sound of something being dragged, to papers being shuffled through, to a door chime from a vehicle.  The dispatcher used GPS to plot the location of the cell phone to the 500 block of King Street.  Officers responded to the area and located a female subject hiding in a vehicle.  She had stolen property from at least three different vehicles in her possession, two of which were locked.  It appears the suspect accidentally dialed 9-1-1 while she was burglarizing cars.  Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision - Vehicle vs. Pedestrian

May 7 at 12:50 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian in the area of Ivy and Walnut.  When officers arrived, they found a subject in the street who had been riding a motorized scooter.  The subject was riding east on Walnut and failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection.  He was struck by a motorist traveling south on Ivy.  The subject suffered a deep laceration to his left leg, but was responsive and appeared to be okay.  He was taken to an area hospital to treat his injury.

Commercial Burglary

May 9 at 5:00 p.m., two male Armenian suspects, one in his 20's and the other in his 40's, stole $500.00 worth of wire from the Home Depot.  An employee obtained a vehicle description and license plate number.  Investigation continuing

Critical Missing Person

May 9 at 8:06 p.m., a 12-year-old girl was reported missing from her foster home in the 500 block of East Walnut.  Earlier that day, she was caught stealing money from another foster child.  She said she did not want to live at the location and apparently ran away.  She is not from the area and has no connection to anyone locally.  Patrol and Special Enforcement Team officers conducted an extensive search.  Officers went door-to-door attempting to locate the missing girl or witnesses, but the subject was not located.  She was entered as a missing person in the computer system and a teletype was sent to notify surrounding agencies.  During the investigation, it was learned that the missing girl had been entered into the system as a runaway from a group home and has an outstanding protective custody warrant.  Investigation continuing.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle

May 10 at 12:28 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of Hacienda reported that a male subject parked a vehicle in front of her house, left the door open and ran northbound down the street.  Minutes prior to the resident's call, Sheriff's deputies were in pursuit of a similar vehicle, which had been stolen the City of Rialto.  The deputies lost the vehicle in the area of Evergreen and Buena Vista.  Officers responded to the location on Hacienda and searched the area, but were unable to locate the suspect.  The vehicle was confirmed to be stolen.  Investigation continuing.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-Up

A case of child molestation was brought to the attention of the Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau and an investigation was launched.  The child molester in this case started molesting his 15-year-old second cousin many years ago.  The suspect was arrested, charged and convicted for the ongoing molestation, and he was sentenced to 18 months in prison in April of 2010. 

The suspect in this case was released in early 2012, and he reestablished a relationship with the victim.  The victim is now over the age of 18, but the suspect was specifically ordered by the judge in this case to not contact the victim when he was released.  Monrovia Police Detectives went to a location in the City of El Monte and arrested the suspect for violation of court order.  He was brought before the judge and sentenced to 3 years in State Prison.  

Tip of the Week

Vehicle Burglary Prevention

Thieves look for easy and inviting targets when it comes to selecting a vehicle to burglarize or steal from.  It is up to you to make every effort to prevent your car from being targeted.  Here are some basic tips that will make your vehicle a little less inviting to a thief:

Most importantly - LOCK your vehicle! 

Always park in well-lighted areas. 

Install motion lights in your driveway. 

Install and use a vehicle alarm. 

DO NOT leave valuables in plain view. 

Leave all items of value at home if possible. 

Look around when you park. Notice anyone or anything suspicious? Write down license    plates and descriptions.  Alert on-site security or staff and call the police.

Many auto burglaries or thefts from cars occur right in a residential driveway, and too often it is because the vehicle was never locked.  Suspects will often target cars that are left unlocked, walking up and down a street trying car doors all the way.  Take the time to secure your vehicle. 

Other thieves target victims by watching what is placed inside a trunk or hatch. If you plan on stopping by the gym, park, or elsewhere after work, take the time before you leave to place your belongings safely in the trunk.  Don't wait until you park to then transfer your laptop, purse, bag, or briefcase to the trunk.  Thieves may be watching and targeting your car.

These are just a few tips to help prevent you from becoming a victim of vehicle burglary.  Be proactive, look around, and most importantly, don't hesitate to call the police if you see something or someone suspicious. 

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of May 3-6, 2012

Gang Activity / Gang Injunction Violations - Four Suspects Arrested

May 3 at 4:27 p.m., a female subject called police and reported shots fired in the 600 block of East Lemon.  Officers arrived on scene and confirmed no shots had been fired; however, a vehicle occupied by four male subjects had driven by yelling out gang slurs.  The vehicle was located and stopped by officers, who conducted a felony stop.  Officers recognized two of the subjects in the vehicle as suspects in an assault with a deadly weapon incident that occurred in the City of Duarte, and the vehicle matched, as well.  Sheriff's deputies responded and took custody of the two suspects.  Monrovia police officers arrested the other two subjects and each was charged with three counts of violating the Gang Injunction.  One of the subjects is currently on parole and a parole hold was obtained.

Fraud / Forgery / Impersonating / Conspiracy - Suspects Arrested

May 3 at 3:26 p.m., a victim of fraud came to the police department to report the crime.  The victim had made a purchase at a business in the 600 block of West Huntington.  The next day a fraudulent online purchase was made on his card at the Pasadena location of this business.  The crime was discovered by the credit card holder through notification from his credit card company.  The victim notified the store and filed a report with police.  

Store personnel called the suspects and advised them they did not have the item ordered on-line, but they could pick one up at the Monrovia Store.  The suspects said they would go to the Monrovia store and pick up their purchase.  Officers were dispatched to the location when the suspects showed up.  The suspects entered the store, signed for the merchandise, and walked out of the business.  Officers stopped the suspects before they drove away.  The two suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Pointing a Laser at Aircraft in Flight - Suspect Arrested

May 5 at 12:38 a.m., a subject standing in a parking lot with a few friends pointed a green laser into the sky.  He saw a helicopter in flight and aimed the laser at the helicopter and tracked it for about three seconds.  The laser struck the cockpit of the police helicopter, causing the pilot to suddenly divert from his flight path.  The pilot and observer saw the path of the laser and were able to locate the point of origin.  They saw the suspect get into a vehicle.  The helicopter followed the vehicle and directed Monrovia officers to the vehicle.  The vehicle was stopped on the 210 Freeway, just east of Santa Anita.  The suspect admitted to aiming the laser at the aircraft, and he still had the laser in his possession.  He was arrested.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered

May 6 at 8:07 a.m., a vehicle GPS monitoring company advised Monrovia Police Department they had located a stolen vehicle registered with them in an alley near the 200 block of West Walnut.  Officers responded to the location and recovered the vehicle.  The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department in Lancaster was notified, as they took the original stolen vehicle report, and they requested the vehicle be held for fingerprinting. 

Theft From a Vehicle

May 6 at 12:38 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 600 block of West Lime.  The victim left her vehicle unlocked and her purse was taken from the vehicle with her wallet in it.  She reported the theft to her credit card companies and was advised the suspect had used one of the cards at a fast food restaurant in Monrovia at 7:56 a.m. and then at another at 8:04 a.m.  The suspect also attempted to use the debit card at an ATM, unsuccessfully.  Investigation continuing. 

Vandalism / Vehicle Tampering

May 7 at 2:20 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of East Lemon reported the windshield wipers on his vehicle had been vandalized.  An officer responded to the location and discovered approximately 20 additional vehicles with similar damage.  The majority of damage to the vehicles was bent antennas and windshield wipers.  The vehicles vandalized were primarily parked on Lemon, between Shamrock and Hacienda.  The investigation is continuing.  

Stop Graffiti Bounty Program

One of the methods the Monrovia Police Department is using to combat graffiti in the community of Monrovia is the Stop Graffiti Bounty Program.  If a citizen reports an incident of graffiti in the City of Monrovia that leads to the arrest of the suspect, the citizen will receive a $100 bill.  Help keep Monrovia looking great!

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of April 30 - May 2, 2012

Theft of City Property - Police Requesting Public's Help

Over the last several months, a number of city sprinkler valves have been cut and the brass fittings have been stolen.  These valves operate the city sprinkler systems for the parkways along our city roads.  The valves are most likely being stolen for the value of the brass.  Suspects are cutting the brass out with a Sawzall type tool.     

City signs are also being stolen at an increasing rate.  Suspects are steeling stop signs, street name signs, street sweeping signs and speed limit signs.  Police are requesting help from the public to report crimes and help catch these thieves.  These suspects may even appear to be contractors servicing the equipment. 

If you see individuals tampering with any of these items, please call police immediately. 

Vehicle Burglary

April 30 at 5:16 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of West Lemon.  The victim's car was parked on the street near their residence.  Unknown suspect(s) entered the vehicle and took a laptop computer and other miscellaneous property.  Investigation continuing.

Drunk in Public / Resisting Arrest / Warrant Arrest - Three Suspects Arrested

May 1 at 2:30 a.m., an officer observed three male subjects drinking alcohol in front of an apartment complex.  He attempted to detain all three subjects as they walked down the driveway.  One subject stopped and the other two fled.  Officers made a thorough search of the area and located the two subjects that ran.  One subject was arrested for drunk in public and an outstanding warrant; the other two were arrested for resisting and delaying a police officer.

Grand Theft Auto

May 2 at 6:19 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of West Lime.  The reporting party parked his vehicle, a red, 1988, Toyota Tacoma truck in front of his residence, locking the vehicle.  The following morning he discovered the vehicle missing.  There was no evidence at the scene to indicate a window had been smashed.  Investigation continuing.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-Up

Gang Association Search Warrants

On April 26, Monrovia Special Enforcement Team officers and detectives were assisted by several outside agencies in serving "gang association" warrants at multiple locations from Pasadena to San Dimas.  The results were positive and many of the objectives of the search warrants were met.  The warrants were served in connection to gang related crimes.

Tip of the Week

Get Home Safely From Your Cinco de Mayo Celebration - Stay Safe and Sober

If you are hosting a party for Cinco de Mayo:

*        Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you serve is involved in an impaired driving crash.

*        Make sure all your guests designate a sober driver in advance or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.

*        Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.

*        Keep the phone numbers for local cab companies handy and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired.

If you are attending a Cinco de Mayo Celebration Party:

*        Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.

*        If you do not have a designated driver, call a cab, sober friend, or family member to pick you up.

*        Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive drunk.

*        Always buckle up.

Alcohol not only dangerously impairs your driving skills, it impairs your judgment.  If you see a friend under the influence of alcohol - don't let them get behind the wheel.

Stop Graffiti Bounty Program

One of the methods the Monrovia Police Department is using to combat graffiti in the community of Monrovia is the Stop Graffiti Bounty Program.  If a citizen reports an incident of graffiti in the City of Monrovia that leads to the arrest of the suspect, the citizen will receive a $100 bill.  Help keep Monrovia looking great!